Top 10 Places to visit in Los Angeles

UCLA: Academics and Leisure Mix

The University of California at Los Angeles is the ideal place to earn your degree in more ways than one. It is the biggest university in the immediate area and is actually considered to be one of the best public universities in the United States. UCLA is also part of the extensive University of California network. Though it was only a small campus when it was founded, it has gone such a long way since then. Academics aside, UCLA is located in the midst of a very interesting area – famous for myriads of choices for tourists, in fact. Earning one’s degree could be hard work yet lucky for UCLA students, there are so many things to do, places to visit, and sights to see within the vicinity. As such, you can expect never to have an idle or dull moment as a UCLA student. Study hard during the week and spend your time in leisurely and relaxing activities during the weekends – you won’t lack for choices, trust me.

Here are my top ten favorite places to visit in the Los Angeles area – in no particular order, mind you.

My Favorite Places to Visit/Things to Do

1. La Brea Tar Pits

Definitely the place to go if you feel like taking a step back in time. The La Brea Tar Pits and the George C. Page Museum hold more than a million bones from different animals. Of course, the tar pits may not be the sweetest smelling place, but seeing the tar bubbling up and students and workers digging up animal bones is an experience of a lifetime. Last I checked, you’d need $7 to get in.

2. Petersen Automotive Museum

Car lovers prepare to feast your eyes when you visit this museum. Established in 1994 by its benefactor Robert E. Peterson, known as the founder of Hot Rod, Car Craft, and Motor Trend (all magazines), this car museum holds innumerable cars, trucks, and even motorcycles in more than four floors. You can spend hours and hours here and come back another day for more. Students get a special deal for the entrance fee - $5. Just make sure you bring your ID.

3. Universal Studios

Everyone wants to pay a visit to this place where you can see first hand how a big budget movie is made. You can walk through sets used for movies seen all over the world. The only drawback may be the number of people visiting the place – that is, if you do not like crowds too much.

4. Sunset Boulevard

Who has not heard of this street? Immortalized in songs and movies and other media, you can find all sorts of entertainment. Live music, comedy bars, famous landmarks, and more – you can actually just walk around one afternoon and enjoy your environs.

5. J. Paul Getty Center

View the Los Angeles skyline from atop a hill when you visit the J. Paul Getty Center. More than that though, marvel at the grand architecture of the buildings at the Center. You can also visit during specific exhibits that they hold within the year. There is also a Garden wherein you can relax in the midst of various plants and shrubbery – all designed to be tastefully artful. Entrance is free.

6. Hollywood

You are in Los Angeles and you just cannot NOT go to Hollywood at least once! Walk the Walk of Fame, take pictures of the Hollywood sign, visit Ripley’s Museum, or just walk around and sink in the ambiance. It may not be as glamorous as what we see in the movies but it is definitely an experience.

7. Rodeo Drive

Everyone feels like shopping one time or another. Since you are already in the area, you should go to Rodeo Drive. True, many things might be too highly priced for a student’s budget but if you have the need to indulge then Rodeo Drive is the place to go. Don’t forget to visit Spago, where celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck reigns supreme.

8. Los Angeles Zoo

What can be more relaxing than a day at the zoo? The Los Angeles Zoo is home to various animals and does not cost much - $10.

9. Hollywood Bowl

Music lover that I am, the Hollywood Bowl cannot be missing from my list. Home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic, this natural amphitheater is one of the best places to listen to and watch musical performances.

10. Music Center

Located in downtown Los Angeles, is the site of the Academy Awards program. You can view various theatrical performances of all genres.